Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has finally broken his silence on the ongoing investigation into his predecessor’s administration, Nasir El-Rufai, over alleged embezzlement of N423 billion from the state treasury.
In a televised interview on Channels TV on Wednesday, Governor Sani described El-Rufai as a “friend and brother,” dismissing claims of a vendetta against him.
Governor Sani acknowledged the efforts of all former governors of Kaduna State, including El-Rufai, stating that each had done their best to govern the state.
However, he emphasized that the investigation was initiated by the State House of Assembly, and he had not interfered and would never interfere.
“The state government under my leadership has not interfered with the assembly’s investigation,” Governor Sani stressed.
He also added, “I am focused on my job and delivering on my campaign promises to the people of Kaduna State.”
The investigation into El-Rufai’s administration centers on allegations of a N432 billion fraud and mismanagement of state funds. The Kaduna State House of Assembly launched the probe, which exposed most of El-Rufai’s former aides, including those serving in Sani’s administration, and indicted them.
In a recent development, a serving Finance Commissioner in Sani’s government and a former ally of El-Rufai was arrested by the ICPC at the Lagos Airport on Sunday while trying to flee the country to evade the probe.
It’s worth noting that Governor Sani and El-Rufai have a history of collaboration, with Sani serving as special adviser on political and intergovernmental affairs to El-Rufai during his tenure as governor.
However, Governor Sani has maintained that his administration will not interfere with the investigation, ensuring its independence and impartiality.